Benchmark to open June 28

Brewery grand openings in San Diego County are like sets of waves off Swami's. If you miss one, it's no big deal -- another will roll in shortly.

But Benchmark's grand opening on June 28 may prove to be an exception to that rule. for two reasons: 1.) pedigree and 2.) location.

Matt Akin, the head brewer here, spent eight years brewing for AleSmith, a small operation with a huge reputation. His partner here is his father, Jim Akin, whose business acumen was honed by 35 years in IT management.

But I'm also intrigued by Benchmark's location in San Diego's Grantville neighborhood. When breweries cluster in an area -- think the Escondido-Vista corridor, where Stone, Offbeat, Lost Abbey/Port and Latitude 33 are found -- it seems to unleash a wave of creativity. Benchmark is only a few blocks from the San Diego Brewing Company; will these new neighbors spur each other on to new heights?

We'll get our first hint at the grand opening, June 29 from 5 to 8 p.m., plus two more sessions on June 29: Noon until 3 p.m., and 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can be bought here; admission includes a 12-ounce pour of Benchmark beer.